Different needs, different solutions
Every business that uses rubber is unique and different. They have their own goals, requirements and ways of working. The one thing they have in common is the need to cool and dry the rubber they produce by using a batch-off. The end products may be tires, pipes, fine tubes for medical devices, components for machines or a vast range of other items. They all need a batch-off in their rubber production process.
But… that does not mean they all need exactly the same kind of batch-off. They need a solution that fits the available space and budgets, precise layout of the facilities and exact product requirements. VMI, as a leader in the rubber industry for 70 years, understands the need for flexibility, which is why our batch-off solutions are modular.
Modularity in action
VMI designs its batch-offs in the form of modular components, making it possible to tailor solutions to customer needs. In conventional batch-offs, the size may well be fixed, and that can cause extra expense and inconvenience, as customers free up space and, in many cases, have to build new extensions or complete buildings to house the equipment.
VMI aims to deliver a solution that is customized to existing facilities and production requirements. The length, width and height of the batch-off can be varied to minimize the need for new construction and engineering work. Specific production needs can also be engineered into the design- and that can potentially make a big contribution to ergonomics, cost reduction, environmental performance and operational efficiency.
VMI Tunnel Batch-off
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VMI Cantilever Batch-off
|Time, space and human effort
VMI works with its customers to understand current production, future developments and key requirements in depth, then delivers to customer needs. There is no “one size fits all” approach for us.
We optimize batch-off solutions by higher levels of automation, reducing the need for labour in the millroom, which is a key factor in cost reduction. Other options can be selected by customers in just the same way as they customize the cars they drive. These include special techniques and components for sampling, slitting strips, pallet handling and automated movement and storage.
We recognize that the processes related to cooling and drying rubber represent a difficult environment for people to work in. Our leadership in automated systems makes it possible to cut human involvement, which contributes to safety while pushing down costs and enhancing operational efficiency.
Ergonomics and the future
As batch-off techniques continue to develop, VMI is pioneering new techniques for ergonomic design and environmental excellence, which we will cover in another news item. Right now, let’s just remember that almost every manufacturing sector uses rubber, and that means almost every manufacturer needs an efficient way to cool and dry the materials and components they produce.
VMI believes every customer deserves a solution precisely tailored to their needs, delivering to the highest standards of efficiency and with exceptional reliability as standard. To discover more about our solutions, click here for a full review of our capabilities or contact our team via the form below.
